Game On

Wood adds another layer of texture to the sleek buildings at Carlaw Park. Ash and cedar provide a soft contrast to the hard concrete and stone surfaces.

Astor Construction carried out the carpentry work on both structures and in the carpark. By maintaining clear lines of communication with the main contractor, the firm brought the job in on time and on budget, says managing director Grant Rowell.

"We took the time to work out the details with the architect to achieve the look he was after," he says.

Low-VOC finishes reduced the project's carbon footprint and helped the development achieve a 4-Star Green Star rating. While both buildings received top-notch finishes, a hotel requires work of a higher quality than offices to appeal to the guests, Grant Rowell says.

With this in mind, the company fitted tongue-and-groove cedar with a smooth, dark finish in the hotel lobby, creating an upscale look as a backdrop for the registration area. Cedar cladding is also used on the exterior soffits.

Across the street in the main commercial building, Victorian ash tongue-and-groove covers the walls beside the lift shafts and in the low, dramatic main entry. The pale wood enhances the airy feel in the light-soaked atrium.

"Our reputation is for producing high-quality finishes that are appropriate to the project," says Grant Rowell.

For more details, contact Astor Construction, Unit L Marua Road, Panmure, Auckland, phone (09) 525 0710, fax (09) 525 0717.

Story by: Trendsideas